Best Public Pools In Pittsburgh
It seems as if winter has relinquished its destructive grip on the Pittsburgh region and that means swimming pools are preparing for an annual start-up for the Memorial Day weekend. There are many public pools that fit that description and the Citiparks Parks and Recreation program along with nearby neighborhoods are ready to splish and splash with families. The pools have more than aquatic pursuits to experience and many pools have recreational activities, hiking trails, picnic tables and swimming lessons for an overall rewarding day for families. The temperature is starting to rise and it's time to rummage through the swimming gear again. It will be well worth the effort to forget about snow, sleet and ice and take a soothing plunge to wash away those winter memories.
Highland Park Pool
151 Lake Drive
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
(412) 665-3637
www.pittsburghpa.gov/swimming-pools-outdoor
Families looking for a scenic and recreational experience at Highland Park Pool will have many unique opportunities to enjoy an aquatic adventure. There is an Olympic-size pool and a children's pool area with a comforting sprinkler to accommodate all needs of the family. Within Highland Park, there are hiking trails, picnic groves, a playground area, volleyball and tennis courts and a fishing pond to complete a fun-filled day. There are a host of seasonal activities and special events and the proximity to the Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium make for a strategic location to visit and enjoy Highland Park.
Dormont Pool
1801 Dormont Ave.
Pittsburgh, PA 15216
(412) 561-8900
http://www.boro.dormont.pa.us/
If you're looking for a unique aquatic experience, swim on over to one of the largest pools in western Pennsylvania, which is located off Banksville Road. There is a water slide, fountain, grass relaxation areas and a snack bar. There are seasonal and individual passes and swimming lessons available. Dormont Pool has various water depth levels that will accommodate all swimming levels. The expansive pool area ensures there is enough water space for a refreshing plunge and a swimming to-do list during the sweltering days of summer.
North Park Pool
Pearce Mill Road
Allison Park, PA 15101
(724) 935-1951
www.alleghenycounty.us
North Park Pool is part of the Allegheny County Park Department and the resources for activities are a vital part of the enjoyment for an overall exciting adventure for all ages. The pool is large enough to handle a maximum numbers of swimmers, and small enough to engage children with a kiddie pool and water slide. The lure of the pool and activities in North Park provides the ultimate recreational experience, and there are enough water sports, hiking and biking trails, ball fields, picnic groves and nature events for the entire family. Start with a tranquil swimming plunge and then start a new adventure through the scenic atmosphere of North Park for an outstanding fitness challenge.
Related: Best Parks In Pittsburgh
Cranberry Twp. Community Pool & Waterpark
450 N. Boundary Park Drive
Cranberry Township, PA 16066
(724) 776-4806 Ext. 1129
www.twp.cranberry.pa.us
Venture on up Route 79 north to the Cranberry Twp. Community Pool for an extraordinary water excursion including an exotic slide of curving tubes. Children may frolic in the kiddie pool, which is shaded by flowered spray fountains or a sandy play area to build sand castles. Umbrellas are available for sun protection, and then relax or make a trip to the snack bar for food and drinks. There is a grass area to lounge before taking another refreshing dip into the sparkling pool.
Related: Best Swim Classes In Pittsburgh
Schenley Park Pool
1 Overlook Drive
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
(412) 422-4266
www.pittsburghpa.gov/swimming-pools-outdoor
Schenley Park plays an important part in the Citiparks outdoor swimming season, and there are activities, programs and water carnivals that make for interesting ways to use the park. The swimming program provides opportunities to participate in lessons, water aerobics and even join the competitive swim teams. Swimming will open in June, but the park offers a chance to enjoy the beautiful scenery or walk, hike or bike throughout the park. Part of the process of participating in the Citiparks swimming program is the chance to join learn-to-swim programs to encourage the joy and exercise benefits of swimming.
Gerry Cernicky is a retired health and physical education teacher with 36 years of experience. He is a former teacher of the year and a sports writer for the Vandergrift News. He delivers podcasts, and maintains a website and blog. He currently resides in Pittsburgh. His work can be found at Examiner.com.